The spiked podcast The free-speech film they tried to censor
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Nov 24, 2025 Tom Slater, Editor at Spiked, dives into the controversial cancellation of the free-speech documentary, 'Think Before You Post.' Joanna Williams discusses Shabana Mahmood's bold immigration reforms, emphasizing the need for a national debate. Candice Holdsworth critiques the government's sociopolitical proposals, including the unpopular milkshake tax, which she views as out of touch. They also explore the rising number of speech arrests in the UK and the importance of distinguishing between genuine asylum seekers and illegal migration.
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Premiere Cancelled Then Rescheduled
- Tom Slater recounts Rich Mix cancelling the premiere a week before the event, citing 'not aligning with their values.'
- After frantic outreach and offers of help, Spiked secured a new central London venue for the same date.
Mainstream Voices Also Targeted
- The film highlights ordinary people prosecuted for speech who were later exonerated or compensated.
- Tom Slater argues this demonstrates persecution can hit mainstream, non-hateful speakers.
Arrests Up While Convictions Fall
- A Times investigation found about 30 arrests a day for two communications offences, yet convictions have fallen.
- This mismatch suggests zealous policing, not just problematic laws.